Charlie

I replaced the expansion valve on my 86 without removing the dash. This was several years agon and it seems as if the hardest part was removing the 0-ring in order to replace it. I had to get a dental type pick to reach it. I think I removed the glove box and was able to get to it.

billatlanta

Steve - Thanks it looks like there is hope yet.

Porsche-O-Phile

Good to know, I'll look for a Rent-X in this area.

An early car evaporator is a simple job - remove glove box (6 screws I think), remove the dash panel below it (4 more screws) and the evaporator is right there. To drop it, I think it's the two hose connections, a couple of vaccum lines and four 10mm bolts, maybe a screw or two also - very easy.

The later cars are tougher, but unless they are CERTAIN there's a leak from either the expansion valve or the evaporator or the hoses to the evaporator, they have no business poking around in there for $100 an hour. Tell 'em to stick to what you've instructed them to do and nothing more - nothing further is authorized.

sm

Yes, you can remove the expansion valve on 85.5+ cars by simply going into the engine compartment and removing the blower fan. I did a quick write-up on this not too long ago.

There will be a black tar-like tape on the expansion valve - remove it and you'll see the fittings you'll need to loosen to remove the valve.

Only thing is, make sure you have the correct valve before you rip everything out. Ask me how I know...